Sokoto: First batch of 485 pilgrims departs for Madinah
By Muhammad Nasir
The first batch of 485 intending pilgrims from Sokoto State on Monday departed for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for the 2026 Hajj exercise.
The pilgrims left the Sultan Abubakar III International Airport, Sokoto, aboard an Aquiline aircraft operated by UMZA Airline at about 6:14 a.m., en route to Prince Mohammad Bin Abdulaziz International Airport, Madinah.
The Inaugural flight conveyed intending pilgrims from Tambuwal, Tureta, Wamakko, Sabon Birni, Isa, Shagari and Dange/Shuni Local Government Areas.
Speaking during the farewell ceremony, Gov. Ahmed Aliyu, represented by his Deputy, Alhaji Idris Gobir, assured the pilgrims that the state government had made adequate arrangements to ensure their welfare and security throughout the pilgrimage.
Aliyu said the government remained committed to ensuring a smooth and successful Hajj exercise.
He urged the pilgrims to be worthy ambassadors of Sokoto state and Nigeria by maintaining discipline, peaceful conduct and respect for the laws of Saudi Arabia.
“Sokoto people are known for good behaviour, discipline and peaceful coexistence wherever they find themselves across the world.
“Hajj is a deeply spiritual journey and should not be ruined by any form of misconduct,” the governor cautioned.
He also advised the pilgrims to pray for peace, progress and development of Sokoto state and Nigeria, noting that prayers offered during Hajj are highly rewarding and readily answered by Almighty Allah.
Also speaking, the 2026 Amirul Hajj and Chairman of the state Hajj Committee, Alhaji Maigari Dingyadi, expressed satisfaction with the arrangements put in place for the exercise.
Dingyadi, who is also the Minister of Labour and Employment, said five flights would be used to transport the 2,404 intending pilgrims from the state for this year’s Hajj.
According to him, all relevant authorities and committees have been mobilised to ensure hitch-free operations, including transportation, feeding, accommodation and other essential services both in Nigeria and Saudi Arabia.
“The airport is fully prepared for 24-hour operations, while various sub-committees have been constituted to ensure the welfare of the pilgrims.
“So far, everything is going smoothly and there is no cause for alarm,” he said.
The minister further urged the intending pilgrims to obey the laws of Saudi Arabia and conduct themselves in line with Islamic teachings and the spirit of brotherhood.
“Sokoto people are known to be peaceful and respectful wherever they go, and the pilgrims should uphold that reputation throughout their stay in the Holy Land,” Dingyadi added.
